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How to Fix Media Center Not Working in Windows 10 1607: Step-by-Step Troubleshooting Guide

Windows Media Center was a popular tool for watching TV shows, movies, and listening to music on Windows systems. However, on Windows 10 version 1607, many users face issues where Media Center stops working or won’t open at all.

This guide will help you troubleshoot the most common problems with Media Center on Windows 10 1607. Each step is explained clearly to make it easy for anyone to follow.

By following these instructions, you can often fix Media Center without needing advanced technical skills. Let’s get started with some simple checks before diving into deeper troubleshooting.

Remember, patience is key. Some fixes might take a few minutes, but they often resolve the issue completely.

Quick Note: Prerequisites and Initial Checks

Before troubleshooting, make sure of the following:

  • Check Windows Version: Confirm you are running Windows 10 version 1607. To check, press Windows + R, type winver, and hit Enter.
  • Media Center Installation: Media Center is not included by default in Windows 10. It must be manually installed or upgraded from previous versions.
  • System Updates: Ensure your system is up to date with the latest Windows updates, as these often fix bugs.
  • Restart PC: Sometimes, a simple restart can resolve temporary glitches.

Step 1: Restart Windows Media Center Process

Sometimes Media Center may freeze or crash due to temporary glitches in its process. Restarting can fix this:

  1. Press Ctrl + Shift + Esc to open Task Manager.
  2. Look for ehshell.exe or any Media Center-related process.
  3. If found, right-click it and select End Task.
  4. Close Task Manager and try reopening Media Center.

Why this helps: Ending the process stops any stuck or crashed instances that prevent Media Center from starting properly.

Step 2: Run Media Center Troubleshooter

Windows includes a built-in troubleshooter to detect and fix common Media Center problems.

  1. Open Control Panel by typing it in the Start menu search.
  2. Click on Troubleshooting.
  3. Under Programs, select Windows Media Center troubleshooter.
  4. Follow the on-screen instructions and apply any fixes it suggests.

Why this helps: The troubleshooter automates the detection of common problems and applies fixes for corrupted files or settings.

Step 3: Check and Repair System Files

Corrupt system files might cause Media Center to malfunction. Running the System File Checker (SFC) can repair these files.

  1. Press Windows + X and select Command Prompt (Admin) or Windows PowerShell (Admin).
  2. Type the following command and press Enter:
    sfc /scannow
  3. Wait for the scan to complete; this may take several minutes.
  4. If any issues are found, SFC will attempt to repair them automatically.
  5. Restart your computer and try opening Media Center again.

Why this helps: This utility fixes missing or damaged Windows system files that Media Center depends on.

Step 4: Reinstall Windows Media Center

If Media Center is corrupted or missing components, reinstalling it can restore proper functionality.

  1. Go to Control Panel > Programs > Programs and Features.
  2. Click Turn Windows features on or off from the left menu.
  3. Locate Windows Media Center in the list.
  4. If it is checked, uncheck it and click OK. Restart your PC.
  5. After restart, go back and check Windows Media Center to reinstall it. Click OK again.
  6. Wait for the installation to complete, then try opening Media Center.

Why this helps: Reinstalling replaces any corrupted files and resets Media Center settings.

Step 5: Update Graphics and TV Tuner Drivers

Outdated or incompatible drivers can cause Media Center issues, especially if you use TV tuner hardware.

  1. Press Windows + X and select Device Manager.
  2. Expand Display adapters and Sound, video and game controllers.
  3. Right-click your graphics adapter and TV tuner (if applicable), select Update driver.
  4. Choose Search automatically for updated driver software.
  5. Restart your computer after updates.

Why this helps: Updated drivers fix compatibility issues with Media Center’s video and audio playback.

Alternative Method: Use Compatibility Mode

If Media Center still refuses to launch, try running it in compatibility mode for an earlier Windows version.

  1. Navigate to the Media Center executable file, usually located at:
    C:Windowsehomeehshell.exe
  2. Right-click the file and select Properties.
  3. Go to the Compatibility tab.
  4. Check Run this program in compatibility mode for: and select Windows 7 or Windows 8.
  5. Click Apply and then OK.
  6. Try launching Media Center again.

Why this helps: Compatibility mode can resolve issues caused by software expecting an older Windows environment.

FAQs

Is Windows Media Center officially supported on Windows 10 1607?

Windows Media Center is not officially part of Windows 10 and was discontinued by Microsoft. However, some users have kept it working through upgrades or manual installation.

Media Center opens but crashes immediately. What should I do?

Try restarting the Media Center process, running the troubleshooter, or repairing system files using SFC as described above.

Can I use third-party alternatives if Media Center doesn’t work?

Yes, there are many alternative media players like VLC, Kodi, or Plex which offer similar or better features.

Will uninstalling and reinstalling Media Center delete my media library?

No, your media files and libraries are stored separately and will not be deleted by uninstalling Media Center.

How do I check if my TV tuner is compatible with Media Center?

Check the manufacturer’s website for compatibility information or look for drivers that support Windows 10 and Media Center.

When Nothing Works

If none of these steps fix the issue, consider these final options:

  • Check Microsoft’s official support forums: Visit the Microsoft Community for help from experts.
  • Consider clean reinstall of Windows: A fresh Windows install can resolve deep system issues but should be a last resort.
  • Use alternative media software: Switching to modern media center applications might be a better long-term solution.

Conclusion

Fixing Media Center on Windows 10 1607 can often be done with simple troubleshooting steps like restarting processes, running troubleshooters, repairing system files, and updating drivers. Reinstalling Media Center or using compatibility mode may also help resolve stubborn problems.

Always start with the easiest solutions and move step-by-step toward more advanced ones. If Media Center is no longer meeting your needs, exploring alternative media players is a good option. With patience and these clear instructions, you should be able to enjoy your media experience once again.

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